a Kennedy 85% certain to run for Obama's old Senate seat

[Algorem]

Chris Kennedy mulls U.S. Senate bid

http://www.suntimes.com/news/sneed/1546527,michael-sneed-chris-kennedy-042809.article

April 27, 2009

BY MICHAEL SNEED Sun-Times Columnist
Scoopsville ...


• To wit: "Right now, it's an 85 percent chance Chris is going to do it," a top Kennedy source tells Sneed. Kennedy has commissioned a poll, which is expected at the end of the week and "will give him a better lay of the land in this ever-changing race," the source said.

• The stats: Sneed is told Kennedy, who runs the Merchandise Mart, is using Obama pollster John Anzalone -- and has reportedly talked to media consultants Larry Grisolano and John Kupper, who now run the firm once headed by David Axelrod, Obama's senior adviser.

• The rationale: Top Dem party sources tell Sneed a Kennedy candidacy would come with instantaneous name recognition. "He's also lived here for 25 years, is in his late 40s, comes from a business background, and has that Kennedy magic," the source added.

• The chat: Although the outcome of the poll would not be the only factor in whether Kennedy runs, word is Kennedy is concerned about media spillover from the drubbing his cousin, Caroline Kennedy, got during her ill-fated bid to get appointed to U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton's seat in New York...

[w4rma]

1. Awesome. (nt)

[cali]

2. why?

he has exactly no experience in running for office. His political involvement has been very limited. Is he really the best that Illinois can do?

[Duckhunter935]

3. But he is a Kennedy

What else is required - people say great but do not even know what he stands for.

[cali]

4. yep. pretty mindless to support someone simply because

of their name.

[Libertyfirst]

5. I'll take a winner whatever their name. n/t

[Raskolnik]

6. At least he's willing to actually run for the office, unlike some other Kennedys.

I could do without political dynasties, but at least he's not asking for the seat to be handed to him on a silver platter.